Summer Boating: Pay attention, be prepared

There’s something magical about being on the water and Oregon offers incredible boating opportunities.

Regardless of what’s calling you to the water and the type of boat you’re in, be aware of your surroundings, be prepared, and make good decisions.            

“Inexperience and solo operation continue to be a growing trend of boating fatalities in Oregon. Planning ahead, boating with others, always keeping a sharp lookout, and wearing a properly fitted life jacket for your boating activity should be at the top of all boaters' focus,” says Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager for the Oregon State Marine Board. “The Marine Board has many resources to help boaters have a safe and enjoyable experience on all of Oregon’s waterways,” adds Paulsen.

The Oregon State Marine Board advises boaters to plan ahead and check out the Marine Board’s interactive boating access map. The map displays public boat ramps and local rules for boat operations. Also, check the weather forecast, water levels, and tides. See if there are any reported obstructions, and have the right gear for your boating activity. Boaters can also check the Marine Board’s website to find out what equipment is required based on the size and type of boat. 

The Marine Board would like to remind boaters:

• Boat Sober. Abstain from consuming marijuana, drugs, or alcohol, which impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination and cause dehydration. Boating demands sharp situational awareness. 
• All children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket when underway on all boats (motorized and nonmotorized). All boaters on Class III whitewater rivers are required to wear a life jacket.
• Be courteous to other boaters and share the waterway. Stage your gear in the parking lot or staging area regardless of your boat type. This makes launching faster and everyone around you happier.    
• In Oregon, all boaters must take a boating safety course and carry a boating safety education card when operating a powerboat greater than 10 horsepower. Paddlers of non-motorized boats 10’ and longer are required to purchase a waterway access permit. The Marine Board also offers a free, online Paddling Course for boaters new to the activity.

For more information about safe boating in Oregon, visit Boat.Oregon.gov.

Life Jacket Loaner Stations

Did you know the Marine Board has helped fund over 100 life jacket loaner stations statewide? Many are along rivers and lakes near access points. Check out the agency's interactive Life Jacket Loaner Station Map to find a location near you. These life jackets are meant to be borrowed for the day and returned. Many are in children's sizes. Whenever you're in and around the water, Wear It!

Waterway Obstructions Map

We've got a map for you to help plan where to put in and take out that combines access sites with reported navigation obstructions (hazards). The map also contains pictures and recommendations for portage or other path options. Have you come across an obstruction that hasn't been reported? Learn how you can help make the map better by using the obstruction reporting tool!